sma makes solar-technology compents callepower converters, essential into putting power into the grid. chinese composition and cuts to subsidies have hit his company hard. >> we need the government to support -- to provide support for german manufacturers. we need stronger funding for research and development, and we need an easy way to access funds. >> researchers agree. they are already experimenting with technology they say could bring even more light into their mini-panel, the kind of break through the company needs to compete. >> it time for a brief look at some of the other stories making news around the world. israel has launched three air strikes on gaza. the israeli military says it was targeting our rocket-launching site and militant base. the exchange of fire comes three days after both sides accepted an unofficial truce, brokered by egypt. >> the philippines ex-president has refused to enter a plea on charges of misuse of public money. she is in poor health, but could face life imprisonment if convicted of funneling nearly $9 million from the country's lottery int. >> germ